The Milwaukee Brewers announced on Thursday that outfielder Christian Yelich will miss the remainder of the 2024 MLB season due to a season-ending back surgery scheduled for Friday. The procedure, to be performed by Dr. Brandon Rebholz, comes as a significant blow to both Yelich and the Brewers as the star outfielder continues to battle persistent back issues that have plagued much of his career.
Yelich last appeared on the field on July 23, and his decision to undergo surgery followed careful consideration and consultations with medical personnel.
"After careful consideration and consultation with medical personnel, I have decided to undergo season-ending back surgery," Yelich said. "I ultimately felt it was in the best interest of myself and the Brewers to have the surgery with the expectation of being back at 100% for next season."
A Remarkable Bounceback Season
Before his season was cut short, Yelich was enjoying a stellar campaign that marked a significant return to form. Over 73 games, he posted an impressive .315/.406/.504 slash line with 11 home runs and 21 stolen bases. His performance was quantified with a 152 OPS+, underscoring his value to the Brewers' lineup. However, despite his on-field contributions, Yelich's defensive metrics had begun to show signs of decline, grading out as below average at this stage in his career.
The Brewers' Lineup Without Yelich
The Brewers, currently holding a commanding nine-game lead in the NL Central with a 69-52 record, have managed to stay competitive without Yelich. Since his departure, they have put together an 11-9 record, showcasing the depth and resilience of their roster. The team's lineup includes left-handed hitters like Jake Bauers, Tyler Black, Sal Frelick, Garrett Mitchell, and Brice Turang, all of whom have stepped up in Yelich’s absence.
The organization attempted to secure a left-handed hitter to replace Yelich before the July 30 trade deadline but were ultimately unsuccessful. Nevertheless, their current standings suggest they are well-positioned to tackle this challenge through the rest of the season.
Contractual Commitments
Yelich is in the fifth year of a nine-year, $215 million contract extension he signed in March 2020. Under the terms of this extension, he is set to earn $26 million annually from 2025 to 2028. The contract also includes a $20 million mutual option for 2029, reflecting Yelich's long-term value to the franchise despite his recurrent back issues.
A History of Back Issues
This latest bout of lower back inflammation, which started in July, is part of an ongoing battle that has seen Yelich struggle with similar problems throughout his career. His decision to finally opt for surgery reflects an attempt to address these issues more definitively, with hopes of returning stronger for the next season.
A Message to Fans
Yelich expressed his disappointment at not being able to contribute on the field during the crucial final stretch of the season.
"We have a very special team here and it will be disappointing not to be able to contribute on the field down the stretch," he said. "However, I have the utmost confidence in my teammates and will be cheering them on with all of you, the great fans of Milwaukee."
He closed his remarks with gratitude for the support he has received and a rallying cry for his team.
"Thank you for all your support. Go Brewers!"
As Yelich steps away to focus on his recovery, the Brewers will continue their pursuit of a division title and a deep postseason run. With a strong lineup and the largest division lead in baseball, they appear ready to face the challenges that lie ahead without their star outfielder.